How to Make Crispy Smashed Potatoes: A Step-by-Step Guide for Ultra-Crunchy Potatoes

Ultra Crispy Smashed Potatoes: The Perfect Side Dish

If you’re searching for a side dish that combines simplicity and sophistication, look no further than Ultra Crispy Smashed Potatoes. This charmingly rustic dish transforms humble potatoes into something extraordinary with a crunchy exterior and a fluffy interior. Perfect for any dinner setting—from weeknight meals to elegant gatherings—these smashed potatoes are sure to sweep you off your feet!

What makes these potatoes so special? Their texture is a delightful contrast: crispy on the outside yet soft and fluffy inside. The light seasoning elevates their natural flavor, while the butter and olive oil add richness that makes them utterly irresistible. Whether you’re serving them beside roasted chicken, grilled steak, or a vibrant salad, these Ultra Crispy Smashed Potatoes will steal the spotlight on your dinner table.

Let’s dive in and explore why you’ll absolutely love this recipe, along with tips and tricks to make your smashed potatoes stand out!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simplicity: The recipe requires minimal ingredients, making it easy to whip up on a busy weekday or weekend gathering.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of butter, olive oil, and seasoning brings a rich, rustic flavor that enhances the natural taste of the potatoes.
• Perfectly Crispy: With a unique cooking method, you’ll achieve a fantastic crunch that contrasts perfectly with the fluffy insides.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike adore crispy potatoes, making this dish a sure hit for any family meal.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: These potatoes can be prepped in advance and reheated, making them a convenient option for meal prep.
• Versatile: They pair beautifully with nearly any protein, and you can experiment with various toppings for added flair.

What Makes This Recipe Special

The brilliance of Ultra Crispy Smashed Potatoes lies not only in the method but also in the quality of ingredients. Using small and medium potatoes allows for a delightful variety in texture, while the careful boiling process ensures they cook evenly. Smashing them slightly before baking creates more surface area, leading to enhanced crispiness.

Flavor-wise, melted unsalted butter and olive oil provide a luscious richness that enhances the dish. The sprinkle of salt and pepper is just the right touch to elevate the natural flavor without overpowering it. If you are feeling adventurous, a garnish of finely chopped parsley adds a lovely freshness, making these smashed potatoes not only delicious but visually appealing as well.

Ingredients

• 700g / 1.4 lb small potatoes (12 to 14)
• 1 to 1.2kg / 2 to 2.4 lb medium potatoes (6 to 8)
• 1 tbsp salt (for boiling)
• 30g / 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 3/4 tsp salt (for sprinkling)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Finely chopped parsley (optional garnish)

Ingredient Notes and Easy Substitutions

• Potatoes: Small and medium varieties like Yukon Gold or baby potatoes are excellent choices for this recipe. They offer good flavor and crispiness. You can also use red potatoes or even fingerling potatoes to add a different visual appeal.
• Butter: Unsalted butter is preferable for precise seasoning, but feel free to use salted butter if that’s what you’ve got on hand; just reduce the additional salt in the recipe.
• Olive Oil: While olive oil gives a wonderful flavor and health benefits, feel free to use canola, vegetable, or avocado oil as alternatives.
• Herbs and Extras: Experimenting with different herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, can jazz up the flavor profile. Cheese lovers can sprinkle some grated Parmesan just before the potatoes finish baking for extra indulgence.

Instructions

1. Boil the Potatoes: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the small potatoes and cook for 20-25 minutes; medium potatoes will require about 30 minutes. They should be fork-tender but not falling apart. Drain and let dry for 5 minutes.

2. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 200°C (390°F) or 180°C (fan) to ensure it’s nice and hot for baking.

3. Smash the Potatoes: Transfer the cooked potatoes to a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Gently smash each potato with a fork or potato masher until they are flattened—but don’t worry, they can be uneven!

4. Steam Dry: Allow the smashed potatoes to sit and steam dry for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that crispiness that everyone craves.

5. Add Flavor: Drizzle the smashed potatoes with melted butter and olive oil. Sprinkle the surface with salt and black pepper to taste.

6. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. If you prefer extra crispiness, you can broil them for the last 2-3 minutes.

7. Serve: Remove from the oven and serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.

Expert Tips for the Best Results

• Drying Time: Allowing the potatoes to dry after boiling creates a better texture. The steam escaping ensures they aren’t soggy when baking.
• Uniform Size: Try to keep your potatoes uniform in size for even cooking. If they’re different sizes, cut larger ones in half before boiling.
• Baking Method: Don’t overcrowd the baking tray; this ensures proper circulation of heat which contributes to even crisping.

Variations

• Cheesy Smashed Potatoes: Add shredded cheese like cheddar or parmesan on top in the last few minutes of baking for a cheesy twist.
• Herbed Garlic Smashed Potatoes: Mix crushed garlic and herbs into the butter before drizzling over the potatoes for an aromatic flavor.
• Spicy Smashed Potatoes: Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes with your salt for a fiery kick.
• Balsamic Glazed Potatoes: Drizzle some balsamic reduction on top before serving for a sweet-and-tangy finish.
• Loaded Smashed Potatoes: Top with sour cream, chives, and crumbled bacon for a loaded version of this classic dish.

Serving Suggestions

Ultra Crispy Smashed Potatoes make a delightful accompaniment to almost any main dish. Here are a few ideas to inspire your meal:

• Pair them with grilled meats such as steak, chicken, or pork for a hearty dinner.
• Serve alongside a fresh salad to create a balanced meal filled with textures and flavors.
• For a comforting winter dish, enjoy them with a rich beef or vegetable stew.
• Use them as a foundation for toppings like pulled pork or mushroom ragout for a unique twist.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover smashed potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and bake at 190°C (375°F) for about 15-20 minutes to revive their crispy texture. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the microwave, but they may lose some of their initial crunch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Avoid Overcooking: Boiling the potatoes for too long can lead to mushy results, affecting the final texture.
• Too Much Oil: While a drizzle of oil is essential, be careful not to overdo it as this can lead to greasiness.

FAQ

1. Can I use different types of potatoes?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with other varieties such as red potatoes or fingerlings. Just note that different potatoes may yield slightly different textures.

2. How do I get the potatoes extra crispy?
Ensuring they dry well after boiling and allowing them to sit in the oven without overcrowding will significantly enhance their crispiness.

3. Can I prepare these potatoes in advance?
Absolutely! You can boil and smash the potatoes ahead of time, then store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake them.

4. What can I add to the toppings?
Consider bacon bits, cheese, fresh herbs, or even a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor.

5. Can these be frozen?
While it’s not recommended to freeze cooked smashed potatoes due to texture changes, you can freeze pre-boiled potatoes before smashing and baking.

Conclusion

In the world of side dishes, Ultra Crispy Smashed Potatoes reign supreme. Their balance of texture, flavor, and presentation makes them a beloved choice for any occasion. This recipe doesn’t just promise delightful potatoes; it ensures you create a dish that friends and family will be raving about!

So why not give it a try? Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the satisfaction of serving up these crowd-pleasing potatoes. Don’t forget to save this recipe for later and share your creations on Pinterest! Happy cooking!

Ultra Crispy Smashed Potatoes

These Ultra Crispy Smashed Potatoes are a perfect side dish with a crunchy exterior and fluffy interior, elevating any meal with their rich flavor and delightful texture.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 20 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Calories: 200

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Potatoes

• 700 g 700g / 1.4 lb small potatoes (12 to 14) Small potatoes like Yukon Gold or baby potatoes.
• 1 to 1.2 kg 1 to 1.2kg / 2 to 2.4 lb medium potatoes (6 to 8) Medium potatoes provide a different texture.

Seasoning and Oils

• 1 tbsp 1 tbsp salt (for boiling) Use enough salt for boiling water.
• 30 g 30g / 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted Unsalted butter is preferable for precise seasoning.
• 1 tbsp 1 tbsp olive oil Can substitute with other oils if preferred.
• 3/4 tsp 3/4 tsp salt (for sprinkling) Adjust to taste.
• 1/4 tsp 1/4 tsp black pepper Adjust according to preference.
• to taste Finely chopped parsley (optional garnish) Adds freshness and visual appeal.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Boil the Potatoes: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the small potatoes and cook for 20-25 minutes; medium potatoes will require about 30 minutes. They should be fork-tender but not falling apart. Drain and let dry for 5 minutes.
2. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 200°C (390°F) or 180°C (fan) to ensure it’s nice and hot for baking.

Cooking

1. Smash the Potatoes: Transfer the cooked potatoes to a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Gently smash each potato with a fork or potato masher until they are flattened.
2. Steam Dry: Allow the smashed potatoes to sit and steam dry for about 5 minutes.
3. Add Flavor: Drizzle the smashed potatoes with melted butter and olive oil. Sprinkle the surface with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. If you prefer extra crispiness, broil for the last 2-3 minutes.
5. Serve: Remove from the oven and serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.

Notes

Allowing the potatoes to dry after boiling creates a better texture. Avoid overcrowding the baking tray for even crisping.

Dave